Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a significant diplomatic mission to Africa, with Ethiopia as his next destination. This upcoming trip, scheduled for December 16-17, marks Modi's third African journey this year, further solidifying India's position as a prominent leader in the global south. The itinerary follows a visit to Jordan and precedes a trip to Oman, showcasing Modi's strategic approach to international relations.
Ethiopia, a recent addition to the BRICS group in 2023, is a key focus of India's development efforts in Africa. India played a pivotal role in Ethiopia's entry into BRICS, and the two nations have since fostered a strong partnership. With approximately 650 Indian companies having invested over $5 billion in Ethiopia, the country is among India's top investment partners. These investments span various sectors, including agriculture, engineering, and water management, highlighting the diverse nature of the collaboration.
The relationship between India and Ethiopia extends beyond economics. During the BRICS summit in Johannesburg in 2023, Modi met with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, discussing ways to enhance bilateral cooperation. This includes parliamentary exchanges, development partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives. Ethiopia's support for India's leadership in the global south is evident, as Ahmed participated in the third Voice of the Global South summit in 2024, chaired by Modi.
Trade between India and Ethiopia is substantial, with bilateral trade reaching $571.52 million in 2023-24. India's exports to Ethiopia totalled $489.59 million, while imports amounted to $81.93 million. The Indian community in Ethiopia has a rich history, with early settlers arriving from Gujarat in the late 19th century. During the imperial era, Indian teachers were widely respected and played a crucial role in Ethiopia's education system, even in remote areas. Today, around 150 Indians hold faculty positions in Ethiopian universities and higher educational institutions, contributing to the country's academic landscape.
The India-Ethiopia partnership is characterized by a mutual understanding, respect, and a genuine commitment to south-south cooperation. This partnership includes capacity-building through technical training, grants, and concessional credit for projects aligned with Ethiopia's priorities. Ethiopia is one of the largest recipients of long-term concessional credit from India in Africa, with over $1 billion in credit sanctioned for sectors like rural electrification, the sugar industry, and railways, demonstrating the depth and breadth of the bilateral relationship.
